Taipei, Feb. 1 (CNA)
Taiwanese fashion designer Sophie Hong, who also runs a bookstore, was honored by the French government Wednesday for her efforts to promote cultural exchanges between Taiwan and France.

Hong received the Knight in the National Order of Merit from Olivier Richard, the director of the Bureau Francais de Taipei, at the 2012 Taipei International Book Exhibition, one of Asia's major book fairs.

Before taking over the Librairie Le Pigeonnier, a bookstore located in Taipei, Hong had traveled extensively in Europe, Japan and the United States to attend various exhibitions.

"Your journey of endeavor in fashion, culture and book promotion is full of sharing and adventure," Richard said in a speech delivered in Chinese.

Hong's achievements lie in her demonstration of a high level of art in a wide array of fields, including jewelry, furniture, fashion design and dance, he added.

Acknowledging her vitality and passion, Richard said the merit was given for her outstanding performances that have helped strengthen France-Taiwan ties.

"It is a comfort to see that the clothes I design are valued by customers," said Hong, "I also hope that my brand -- Sophie Hong -- can serve as a bridge between the cultures of Taiwan and France."

Hong especially paid tribute to the deceased founder of the bookstore, Francoise Zylberberg, who came to Taiwan in 1979 to teach French.

Librairie Le Pigeonnier has strived to publish distinguished works on Taiwan history to make known the island's culture to French society, she said.

(By Nancy Liu)
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